Hancock's nudibranch [Hancockia californica]
Description
Hancockia californica, also known as Hancock's nudibranch, is a small sea slug that can be found along the western coast of North America, from Alaska to Baja California. It inhabits rocky subtidal areas, especially those with a rich growth of hydroids, its primary food source. The species is notable for its elongated, slender body, which reaches a length of up to 25 mm. It is characterized by its translucent white color, often adorned with patches of brown or orange, and its cerata, which are arranged in clusters along the body.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Mollusks
Mollusca
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Tusk shells
Scaphopoda
|
| Order |
Gadilida
Gadilida
|
| Family |
Gadilidae
Gadilidae
|
| Genus |
Hancockia
Hancockia
|